Strikingly patterned but very skulking bird of forest borders, thickets, and tangles in humid tropical lowlands; uncommon. Heard much more often than seen; typically sings from dense vine tangles. Song suggests some trogons, but ends with a quiet snarl audible at close range. Male is black above; female is rusty above. Both have clean white underparts, bright red eyes, stout hooked bills, and crests that can be raised or lowered.